Wimbledon Wildcards 2025: Who decides and why they matter

Every year at Wimbledon, some players enter the tournament without going through the usual process. They don’t qualify directly. They didn't win a qualifying match either. Still, they get a chance to play.

But how do these players get in? Who decides? And why are these “wildcard” entries so special? The answer involves big names, old champions, and secret selections.

Goran Ivanisevic made history with a wildcard in 2001

In 2001 Goran Ivanisevic, Croatian tennis star, was rated globally. Number 125. He did not automatically qualify for Wimbledon that year. He received, though, a wildcard from the All England Lawn Tennis Club, the organization in charge of Wimbledon. Then winning the men's singles championship, Ivanisevic stunned the world.

This was the first time a male wildcard won Wimbledon. Still regarded as among the most unexpected and poignant tennis victories is his tale.

Serena Williams and Venus Williams won Doubles titles with Wildcards

American sisters Serena Williams and Venus Williams received wildcard invitations in 2000 and once more in 2009 to compete in women's doubles at Wimbledon. They both won the competition. London's renowned Wimbledon courts hosted these tournaments. Even though they were already famous in singles, they were not originally entered in doubles.

But the wildcard gave them a chance — and they used it to win. This shows how wildcards are often given to strong players who fans want to see again.

Andy Murray and Jamie Murray got a wildcard in 2024

British siblings Andy Murray and Jamie Murray were given wildcard entry to Wimbledon's men's doubles in July 2024. Following an injury, Andy, two-time Wimbledon singles winner, was returning. Hoping to allow admirers to see him once more at his home event, the wildcard was seen as a gift from the All England Club.

Regrettably, the Murrays were defeated in the first round. Still, their arrival changed British tennis.

How the Wimbledon Wildcard decision Is made

Wimbledon has been giving wildcards since 1977. A group at the All England Lawn Tennis Club decides who gets them. They look at a player’s past performance, especially at Wimbledon, injury history, and sometimes give chances to local British players. Since 2003, some wildcard places in singles are also given through play-off tournaments, usually held in the UK.

These matches help the committee pick deserving players.

Jonathan Marray and Frederik Nielsen were the last Wildcard Champions

Frederik Nielsen of Denmark and British player Jonathan Marray claimed the Wimbledon men's doubles crown in 2012. They were wild card nominees. Their victory in the contest at the All England Club left everyone surprised. Wildcard players won a championship at Wimbledon this time around.Also Read: Petra Kvitova Returns To Wimbledon; Awarded Wild Card; Only Non-British Player Selected